Yoga for Golfers

by Balanced Mind and Body Yoga
(Marbella, Spain)

In golf, every detail matters. Having a slight advantage can make the difference between an enjoyable day on the course or a disappointing one. Golfers want to eliminate strokes as well as pain so they can continue playing the game they love for many years. Yoga can offer this advantage by increasing flexibility, range of motion in the joints and honing mental concentration.

Many golfers complain of lower back pain from repeated spinal rotation from swinging the golf club. Increasing flexibility in the spinal rotators is key to preventing injuries. One of yoga's major benefits is improving core strength. Stronger core muscles result in more spinal support and less strain on the lower back.

Because golfers swing with one side of the body, their muscles can develop unevenly. During the less than four seconds that it takes to swing, the body draws from lateral, vertical and rotational power sources. Developing strength and length evenly will help counterbalance what happens on the course. The golf swing requires stability and flexibility of the hips and thoracic spine. A regular yoga practice can help address these issues.

Golf involves a great deal of physical skill and practice, but unless the mind is calm and focused, one won't be at the top of his game. The emphasis on yogic breathing and mind-body connection in yoga is essential in helping athletes develop mental acuity, patience and concentration. Learning to be present in each moment on the course will result in a more fluid, enjoyable game.

If you live in Marbella or are visiting, contact us to schedule a private yoga class: balancedmindandbodyyoga@gmail.com